Bronfenbrenner's bioecological model

Bronfenbrenner's bioecological model

The model suggests the interactions between the individual and their environment, categorized into various systems, shape their development over time.

Mesosystem

The second layer from the individual, encompassing the different interactions between the characters of the microsystem. For example, the relationship between the individual's family and their school teachers or administrators. In order for an interaction to be considered part of the mesosystem, it has to be a direct interaction between two aspects of the microsystem that influences the development of the individual.

Exosystem

The third layer, and contains elements of the microsystem which do not affect the individual directly, but may do so indirectly. For example, if a parent were to lose their job or have their hours cut back, this would affect their child in an indirect way such as financial strain or increased parental stress.

Microsystem

The first and most immediate layer of the nested systems. It encompasses an individual's human relationships, interpersonal interactions and immediate surroundings. An example of this system would be the relationship between an individual and his or her parents, siblings, or school environment.

Macrosystem

The fourth and outermost layer of the bioecological model, it encompasses cultural and societal beliefs and programming that influence an individual's development. Examples of this would include gender norms or religious influence.